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A fellow once came to me to ask for an appointment as a…

“A fellow once came to me to ask for an appointment as a minister abroad. Finding he could not get that, he came down to some more modest position. Finally, he asked to be made a tide-waiter. When he saw he could not get that, he asked me for an old pair of trousers. It is sometimes well to be…” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“A fellow once came to me to ask for an appointment as a minister abroad. Finding he could not get that, he came down to some more modest position. Finally, he asked to be made a tide-waiter. When he saw he could not get that, he asked me for an old pair of trousers. It is sometimes well to be humble ...”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A minister seeks increasingly modest roles, ending with a humble request, illustrating the value of humility.

In simple terms: Humility is shown through accepting lower positions.

Key Takeaway

Embrace humility in service.

Themes

humility service leadership

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • religious service
  • career progression
  • personal growth
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

modesty selflessness

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you accepted a lesser role for a greater good?
  • How does humility affect authority?
A Different Perspective

Humility may be exploited by others.

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